Not backing down

An activist from the demonstration at Reforma in the centre of Mexico City displays the daily newspaper of the occupation. Mexico is living through probably the most politically important time since its Revolution in 1910. Suspecting massive electoral fraud, the opposition leader López Obrador refused to accept his opponent’s claim to have won the July election, and called for a public mobilization in the centre of Mexico City. On 30 July, over two million participants showed up. Obrador then called for a permanent sit-in, which has continued ever since with delegations from all 31 states. About 70 per cent of those who participate daily are citizens with no party or political affiliations. The encampments occupy many central streets in the city. They are bubbling with cultural activity organized by well-known national intellectuals and artists – music, theatre, dancing, chess, round table discussions and talks. Their main demand is for a complete recount, something that the electoral commission has so far resisted. As we go to press, the issue is still unresolved although the unprecedented mobilization has shaken Mexico’s political culture to its roots.

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